What to do if you're stung by a yellowjacket

What to do if you're stung by a yellowjacket

In most people, a yellowjacket sting produces an immediate pain at the sting site. There will be localized reddening, swelling and itching. Unlike a bee, a yellowjacket will not leave a barbed stinger in the skin.

A yellowjacket will often bite the skin to get a better grip, and then jab its stinger into a person's flesh repeatedly.

Here's what to do if you or someone with you is stung by a yellowjacket:

Wash the wound carefully with soap and water. This will help remove the venom.

Apply cold water or ice in a wet cloth, or a paste of meat tenderizer with water.

Take a pain reliever or an oral antihistamine to reduce swelling.

Apply a calamine product to reduce itching.

Lie down.

Lower the stung arm or leg below the heart.

Do not drink alcohol or take sedatives.

If the sting is to the throat or mouth, seek medical attention immediately! Swelling in these areas can cause suffocation.

Signs that a person may be allergic…

Severe swelling in parts of the body distant from the sting site

Widespread skin irritation/hives

Constriction in throat and chest/difficulty breathing

Dizziness or fainting

Vomiting or diarrhea

The above symptoms after a sting point to anaphylaxis -- a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening.

If you’re with someone who is experiencing anaphylaxis, you should:

Call 911

See if they have an epinephrine (adrenaline) auto-injector (Epi-Pen) and inject them

Try to keep them calm

Help them lie on their back

Raise their feet about 12 inches and cover them with a blanket

Turn them on their side if they are vomiting or bleeding

Make sure their clothing is loose so they can breathe

Avoid giving them oral medications or anything to drink, and avoid lifting their head -- especially if they’re having trouble breathing